Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Chelsea Malowski, owner of Valley Creations, located in Petawawa, ON, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

We are Valley Creations. Home to over 175 local and Canadian artisans under one roof showcasing thousands of items from across the country from coast to coast. We aspire to bring a significant variety of products to the township of Petawawa. We saw a need, we filled it, and we thrive on the support of the local and surrounding communities shown us. We feature products of every genre and variety, from coffee and baked goods to a full room for babies/children, a room for pets, and everything in between. Whether it is a gift that is needed or a reason to treat yourself, we have everything you are looking for and more. Beauty products and cosmetics, tea and honey, live plants and planters, interior and exterior home decor, candles, and beard care … We have it all!

Tell us about yourself

I am from a small town in Nova Scotia, where I spent most of my life before heading out West craving something more. After six years in Edmonton, AB, and six years in Brandon, MB, my family and I find ourselves nestled in the Town of Petawawa. Valley Creations started in my home in Brandon back in 2012 when I primarily created custom cake pieces and catered for weddings and other large events. Over the years, the business transitioned into more than I envisioned it ever would, from creating cakes to creating custom home decor pieces and woodworking mostly … to keep myself occupied through deployments prior to having our son. My main motivation to continue with my small business is simply to end each day feeling like I have made an impact on someone, something, or somewhere.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My largest accomplishment to date is the opening of our boutique storefront (1162 Victoria Street, Petawawa) This was an idea many years in the making but never had the time to be able to bring it to fruition with work/life balance heavy on the working side it just was not possible. In the last year, I was presented an opportunity to take the dream, run with it and see it through. We opened in June of 2021, with our grand opening commencing October 2021. We could not be more proud of how far we have come regardless of all obstacles.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

The hardest thing about being a business owner is with entire honestly the measure of work/life balance. I believe over the last two years, society has come to hear this term more and more, not really knowing its value until the pandemic. The balancing act of having a 14-month-old, being a military wife, working full time, having staff, running a business, keeping up with friends and family, appointments and meetings … the list goes on is at times what makes you wonder what you do this for. But, my core always comes back to making each day you are given count. My small business boutique gives a platform for other small businesses across Canada to showcase what they offer, expand to new areas, and feature the brands they have worked hard on as well. That … is all I need to keep me going.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Do not second guess or sell yourself short. You CAN do this. It takes work, motivation, dedication, and focus. Dream big and hit or miss ... you do not want to live with the what-if factor in life.
  2. Spend money to make money, they say. Business is an investment but not only one that involves your bank account. It is an investment of time, an investment to your family and realizing the time away from them in renovating, meetings, etc., and of course, as mentioned, an investment financially. Make sure you have a solid foundation to stand on before you dig in.
  3. Be realistic. Think all aspects of your business through. Creating a solid business plan of where you started, where you are, and where you want to take yourself is imperative to your success. Take the time to go through all the fine details to make a concrete business plan for longevity.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Life is Tough >>> You are Tougher.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.valleycreationscanada.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valleycreationscanada/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.